ARSENAL are pushing to sign Leeds star Raphinha as manager Mikel Arteta is "really in love" with the player, reports suggest.
That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who claims Arteta is very keen on the winger but there is also competition from Chelsea who have made contact with the Whites.
Romano reports that the transfer saga surrounding the Brazil international, who has a contract until 2024, is one of the "craziest" in recent times and could last a little longer.
The 25-year-old initially agreed personal terms with Barcelona in February but the club's €40million (£34.3m) bid doesn't meet Leeds' £65m asking price.
The Gunners have also made an offer but that too has been turned down by the Yorkshire giants.
The North Londoners' task got even tougher as Chelsea's new owner Todd Boehly made a "direct call" with Elland Road chiefs exploring a possible deal.
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Rivals Tottenham are also reportedly preparing a proposal to land the Brazilian ace.
Although Raphinha has hinted at Barca being a priority he is still open to listening to Premier League clubs.
However, the versatile forward may need "a few days" to make a decision regarding his future.
Arsenal need attacking reinforcement after losing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette for free in January and June respectively.
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Eddie Nketiah's contract also runs out at the end of the month, while record signing Nicolas Pepe has fallen out of favour.
That means Arteta is in dire need of attacking options after failing to make it to this season's Champions League.
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